Small monument at Highlands Park bears heavy load

By Jeremy T. Gerlach :
April 29, 2013
: Updated: May 6, 2013 2:25pm

VFW Post 837 Commander Leo Silva (left), District 3 Councilwoman Leticia Ozuna and Eloy Diaz during the dedication of a veterans monument at the Schley Triangle.

San Antonio is home to many monuments honoring veterans.

The newest — at Schley Triangle, dedicated April 20 and organized by 80-year-old Korean War veteran Eloy Diaz — seems non-descript at first glance: A simple pair of boots are bounded by a plaque and empty helmet mounted on a gun, near the intersection of South Walters and Schley Avenue.

To John Rodriguez, a memorial — large or small — can only be a part of honoring the nation's armed forces.

“These men and women are worthy of far greater honors than markers,” said Rodriguez, the keynote speaker at the April 20 dedication ceremony and a member of VFW Post 873 and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

“You've heard it before, and you're going to hear it again: We serve, and we are going to continue to serve those who serve,” Rodriguez added.

Rodriguez urged for a more continual and powerful tribute to these men and women.

“Let us pledge, right now, together, to honor the flag,” he said. “We have free speech, which is what makes this country great. But remember – that flag represents the men and women we are honoring today.”

District 3 Councilwoman Leticia Ozuna noted that the monument was distinct to the Highland Park area because so many of those honored at the ceremony were locals.

“This small monument is going to carry a big load,” she said. “Good and sad memories are to be revived on days like this, but let this one be a source of pride for this neighborhood.”

U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett added that the monument meant an increased devotion to vigilance both at home and abroad.

“This week alone, we have been tested,” Doggett said, referring to the tragedies in West and Boston. “We're also honoring those who serve domestically, our first responders.”

Doggett congratulated Diaz, the veteran behind the fundraising effort for the monument.

“Not many people celebrate their 80th birthday with a fundraiser,” Doggett said.

Albert Lopez, president of the Highland Park neighborhood association, explained that he has a newfound appreciation for Diaz's activism.

“As a kid, I grew up here (in Highland Park) my entire life, and I'd see people building and naming (monuments, amenities and schools),” Lopez said. “I took that activism for granted. But it is activism – you have to work. Now, it's our time to work, our time to honor (those) who have served.”